Benzenediol-berberine hybrids: Multifunctional agents for Alzheimer's disease

A series of hybrid molecules, by reacting berberine with benzenediol, melatonin, or ferulic acid, were designed and synthesized. These compounds were evaluated for: (i) the ability to inhibit multiple cholinesterases (ChEs); (ii) the capacity to prevent amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation; and (iii) antioxidant potential.